Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has sent a cryptic message seemingly aimed at Morocco following fresh criticism of the host nation’s conduct at the just-concluded 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

“My role with the coaches is to be the guy I never had. I sat in my office very, very, very often, very, very, very alone.

The 58-year-old, who has been working as Red Bull’s global head of football for a year, said Real did not seem to have a plan post-Alonso and may struggle to find the right replacement.

“It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner, and equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport, it is simply not right.”

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) came to a dramatic close with Senegal crowned champions after a thrilling final against hosts Morocco in Rabat.

“The image we’ve given of Africa is shameful. A coach who asks his players to leave the field … What Pape did does not honour Africa,” Regragui said.

Senegal stunned Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations final on Sunday as Pape Gueye’s goal gave them a 1-0 extra-time win in a game marred by ugly incidents following a controversial penalty award.

Morocco talisman Brahim Diaz missed a dramatic penalty as Senegal returned to the pitch following a brief protest during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final on Sunday night.

Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations final was delayed for almost 20 minutes right at the end of the game after Senegal players furiously protested a controversial penalty awarded to Morocco.

Aston Villa’s Premier League title challenge suffered a huge blow in a 1-0 defeat against Everton, while Newcastle’s push towards the top four was derailed by a 0-0 draw at Wolves on Sunday.